THE SCOOP More often than not, buyers who house hunt in Massapequa Park are serious about moving there, says Ralph Scotto of Charles Rutenberg Realty. "It's a niche area," he adds.

"It's a wonderful little village," says former resident Mary Kuhlkin of Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Kuhlkin cites village parks, annual events and a well-patronized, pedestrian-friendly downtown along Park Boulevard. "The business district is doing really well," says Deputy Mayor Jeffrey Pravato, adding, "The restaurants are hopping." Other commercial areas can be found on Merrick Road, Sunrise Highway and Front Street.

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There are three village parks: Colleran Park on the water, which is closed due to Sandy storm damage (a project to repair the shoreline is in the works, Pravato says, noting it may take awhile); Mansfield Park in the northern section with athletic fields; and Brady Park, which is at Lake Shore Drive and Front Street and is the most active. It offers athletic fields, courts, a playground, picnic areas overlooking the adjoining Massapequa State Park Preserve and a community center. It's also the site of many village events. On June 30, a rebuilt pavilion is being renamed after the late Harry Jacobson, a trustee and longtime resident, Pravato says.

Neighborhoods stretching just south of the Southern State Parkway to the South Shore feature ranches, Capes, split-levels and some high-ranches and Colonials, Kuhlkin says, noting '20s and '30s stucco-style homes and Tudors can be found around the train station. Pricier, larger homes (3,000 to 5,000 square feet) tend to be in the Bar Harbour section.

SALES PRICE From May 1, 2012, to June 10, 2013, there were 169 sales with a median price of $399,000, according to Multiple Listing Service of Long Island data. The low sales price was $235,000, and the high was $885,000. From May 1, 2011, to June 10, 2012, there were 160 sales. The median sales price was $407,500 with a low of $200,000 and a high of $1,590,000.